- The United States Mission Nigeria has confirmed that Nigerian students and exchange participants holding valid F1 and J1 visas will not be affected by the partial visa suspension
- The mission stated that valid visa holders can continue their studies and exchange programmes in the United States without disruption
- Meanwhile, Nigeria remains among countries affected by the partial visa measures, though exemptions protect current students and exchange participants
The United States Mission Nigeria has clarified that Nigerian students and exchange visitors holding valid visas will not be affected by the partial visa suspension under Presidential Proclamation 10998.
In a post on X, the mission stated that “Nigerian students and exchange participants with currently valid F1 and J1 visas are not affected by Presidential Proclamation 10998. Students and exchange participants with visas can continue to contribute to learning, research, and innovation at U.S. colleges and institutions.”
This statement seeks to ease concerns ahead of the proclamation’s implementation on January 1, 2026.
Under Presidential Proclamation 10998, the United States will partially suspend the issuance of certain visas to Nigerian nationals beginning at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on January 1, 2026.
The suspension covers:
- Nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas
- F, M and J student and exchange visitor visas
- Immigrant visas, with limited exceptions
Authorities stressed that the measure applies only to foreign nationals outside the United States on the effective date and who do not hold a valid U.S. visa as of January 1, 2026.
Officials further clarified that “Foreign nationals, even those outside the United States, who hold valid visas as of the effective date are not subject to Presidential Proclamation 10998. No visas issued before January 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. EST, have been or will be revoked pursuant to the Proclamation.”
This means existing visa holders can continue their programmes in the United States without disruption.
In December 2025, Nigeria was listed among 19 countries affected by the partial suspension. The U.S. government cited security and immigration policy considerations.
In recent months, additional measures have impacted Nigerian travellers, including reduced validity for nonimmigrant visas and travel restrictions.
Earlier warnings also highlighted that visa overstays could affect future opportunities for other citizens seeking U.S. travel.
For now, the mission has reaffirmed that students and exchange participants with valid F1 and J1 visas remain unaffected and can continue their studies and exchange programmes.
The F-1 visa allows international students to study full-time in U.S. institutions, while the J-1 visa facilitates cultural and educational exchanges for students, researchers, and interns.
The clarification aims to reassure affected individuals and address concerns surrounding the upcoming policy changes.